REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable upper fit
Some pace versatility
Unique cushioning
REASONS TO AVOID
Feels less cushioned with speed
Bulky
On Cloudmonster 2 Review
A max-cushioned shoe with a firm ride, best for easy mileage and the occasional pace change
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
By Nathaniel Bailey ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ October 10, 2025
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Our Verdict
The On Cloudmonster 2 pairs the brand's CloudTec design with a big foam stack, making it hard to miss. This shoe sets out to provide premium comfort and propulsion, but in reality, it is a mixed bag of features. The Cloudmonster is well-cushioned, but the feel is firm; the faster you go, the firmer it gets. The Cloudmonster 2 rolls well at relaxed paces and can get moving if it has to, but the overall bulk and lack of energy from the midsole limit its speed. It's max-cushioned with firm landings and has versatility limited to certain pace ranges. The result is a good, but hyper-niche, shoe. Considering the price, the lack of range is a significant drawback. The Cloudmonster 2 isn't a bad shoe, but we think many runners will be happier with other shoes.
Our Analysis and Test Results
Typically, when a running shoe combines super foam with a plate, we expect a “super trainer.” A shoe that incorporates some key features of race day options with the stability and comfort of a daily trainer. Unfortunately, the Cloudmonster misses that mark. It's capable of easy running, but doesn't offer the same versatility or bottomless cushioning as its competitors.
The Cloudmonster 2 is meant to be an extremely cushioned and versatile shoe. Our testers think it missed that mark.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Cushioning
The midsole has 40 mm of Helion superfoam with a nylon “Speedboard” plate sandwiched in the middle. The rocker geometry is pronounced but slightly obscured by On's unique-looking “CloudTec pods.” It's clear that the intention behind the Cloudmonster 2 was to create a shoe that is well-cushioned, with lots of energy, and the ability to quickly change pace.
The midsole of the Cloudmonster is unique, at least in the context of most running shoes.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
However, the actual experience is different. The Helion superfoam feels firm, possibly due to the Speedboard (a nylon plate meant to provide stiffness) or the CloudTec shape. We got a very firm landing where we expected a bouncy and somewhat soft ride. When we took the Cloudmonster on longer runs, it performed well, but towards the end of the run, we were longing for the slightly softer and more energetic feeling of some competitors.
The lacing system on the Cloudmonster is solid, offering easy adjustment and a snug but not constricting fit.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upper Comfort
The Cloudmonster upper uses premium materials. Despite the materials initially feeling rough, we didn't have any issues with rubbing or blisters. The upper's fit is great, with plenty of room, and it offers an excellent ability to achieve good lockdown via an adjustable lacing system.
The Cloudmonster 2 is a little roll-prone if you land towards the outside of your foot.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Stability
The Cloudmonster 2 doesn't have the best stability. On pavement, it feels planted as long as you land squarely. We noticed that the sharp edges of the shoe made it very easy to roll an ankle on uneven surfaces, and they made landings uncomfortable when the outside of the foot made contact with the ground first. The firm midsole and wide base perform well, but there aren't any dedicated stability features. Runners who need support may not enjoy the lack of landing support in the Cloudmonster.
The Cloudmonster is heavy, especially considering the target audience.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Weight
For a shoe that is meant to have good pace versatility, the Cloudmonster weighs too much. Our testing showed a weight of 11.2 ounces in a US M 10.5, which is heavier than average, and significantly more than shoes with similar marketing.
The grooves on the Cloudmonster attract rocks.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
We didn't have any issues with traction when running in the Cloudmonster. While there isn't a tremendous amount of outsole contacting the ground, the grip seemed good. We frequently managed to wedge a rock between the CloudTec pods multiple times when running on a rocky dirt road, making it a poor contender for those who travel frequently on gravel.
Should You Buy the On Cloudmonster 2?
You should probably avoid the Cloudmonster 2; we think there are better options for the money. It doesn't really accomplish what it sets out to do: provide good versatility in a max-cushioned package. Pace changes aren't ideal, and the heft gets in the way when running fast.
What Other Running Shoes Should You Consider?
The most obvious competitor to this shoe is the Asics Superblast 2, which offers incredible cushioning, top-tier performance, and great comfort. It does cost more, but we think the difference is worth it. For a lower price, the Asics Novablast 5 accomplishes a lot of what the Cloudmonster sets out to do. It is lighter, faster, and more comfortable on impact with better pace changing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare On Cloudmonster 2 versus top competing products:
—Nathaniel Bailey
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